San Juan Bautista Mission - California

Address:San Juan Bautista, California
Tel: (831) 623-2127

The San Juan Bautista Mission, otherwise known as the "Mission of Music" was founded on June 24, 1797 by Father Fermin Lasuén. Within just a few months, because of the eagerness and friendliness of the indigenous Matsun and Yokuts, the mission was nearly complete with an adobe church, a monastery, a granary, barracks, and some adobe houses. A more permanent church (the current one) was built from 1803-1812, and Padre Esteban Tapis was buried in its sanctuary. Presidente of the Mission at one point, Tapis was best known for his musical talents—hence the mission moniker "The Mission of Music."

The Mission expanded during the California Gold Rush and continues to serve a vibrant Roman Catholic community. Visit the church and join the regular church services, Mass (sometimes in Latin, but mostly in English), baptisms, and classes.

When visiting San Juan Bautista Mission, make sure not to overlook the floor tiles of the church—the tiles were dried in the sun, and during the process animals tracked their prints all over them, causing a detailed pattern on the now tiled floor. Also notice the "Cat Door" in the Guadalupe Chapel which allowed cats 24-hour access to the church so they could freely catch mice. You may recognize parts of the Mission from Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo.

The Mission's Gift Shop is open every day (except on major holiday) and school field trips and other organized tours are also available. Enjoy this bit of living spiritual history when you visit the San Juan Bautista Mission!

The Mission is named for Saint John the Baptist. The Indian name was Popelout, or Popeloutchom. It is known for being the largest of the mission churches, with three aisles instead of the single aisle in other mission churches. Three of the nine bells in the chapel area remain. The church is active and has been since the Mission's founding.